Top 10 Best Breakup Songs in the World That Makes You Deeply Cry
Breakups are a universal experience, and music has a unique way of capturing the raw emotions of heartbreak. The best breakup songs resonate deeply, evoking tears and helping us process loss, betrayal, or longing. This curated list of the top 10 English breakup songs is designed to tug at your heartstrings, blending soulful ballads, raw anthems, and poignant lyrics that articulate the pain of love lost.
Rank |
Song |
Artist |
---|---|---|
10 |
Slow Dancing in the Dark |
Joji |
9 |
Stay With Me |
Sam Smith |
8 |
Happier |
Ed Sheeran |
7 |
Somebody That I Used to Know |
Gotye ft. Kimbra |
6 |
I Can’t Make You Love Me |
Bonnie Raitt |
5 |
I Will Always Love You |
Whitney Houston |
4 |
All I Want |
Kodaline |
3 |
Nothing Compares 2 U |
Sinéad O'Connor |
2 |
All Too Well |
Taylor Swift |
1 |
Someone Like You |
Adele |
10. Slow Dancing in the Dark – Joji

Joji’s “Slow Dancing in the Dark” blends haunting melodies with introspective lyrics about a relationship’s end. The song’s atmospheric production and Joji’s emotive delivery create a sense of melancholy and longing, resonating with listeners worldwide.
Key Points:
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Atmospheric, moody production.
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Lyrics explore heartbreak and self-reflection.
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Became a viral hit on streaming platforms.
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Praised for its emotional depth and unique style.
9. Stay With Me – Sam Smith

Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me” is a soulful plea for companionship after a breakup. The gospel-inspired arrangement and Smith’s heartfelt vocals express vulnerability and longing, making it a powerful anthem for those feeling alone.
Key Points:
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Gospel influences and rich harmonies.
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Lyrics about loneliness and desire for connection.
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Won multiple Grammy Awards.
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Became a global hit for its emotional resonance.
8. Happier – Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s “Happier” is a bittersweet reflection on seeing an ex find happiness with someone else. The gentle melody and honest lyrics convey acceptance and lingering sadness, resonating with anyone who has had to let go.
Key Points:
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Soft, acoustic arrangement.
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Lyrics about acceptance and moving on.
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Popular for its relatable message.
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Sheeran’s storytelling ability.
7. Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye ft. Kimbra

“Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye and Kimbra captures the confusion and pain of a relationship’s end. Its unique production and conversational lyrics present both sides of a breakup, making it a modern classic.
Key Points:
-
Distinctive, minimalist sound.
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Lyrics present dual perspectives.
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Became a viral hit and won multiple awards.
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Resonates with anyone blindsided by a breakup.
6. I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is a soulful ballad about the pain of unrequited love. The song’s gentle piano and Raitt’s emotive vocals create a sense of quiet resignation, making it a favorite for those experiencing heartbreak.
Key Points:
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Lyrics focus on acceptance and vulnerability.
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Praised for its emotional honesty.
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Covered by numerous artists.
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Often cited as one of the greatest breakup songs.
5. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s version of “I Will Always Love You” is a timeless ballad about saying goodbye with love and respect. Her soaring vocals and heartfelt delivery have made it a global anthem for breakups, symbolizing enduring love even in parting.
Key Points:
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Iconic vocal performance.
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Lyrics about letting go with grace.
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One of the best-selling singles of all time.
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Frequently used in emotional film scenes.
4. All I Want – Kodaline

Kodaline’s “All I Want” is a moving ballad about the ache of missing someone deeply. The song’s gentle build and emotional crescendo mirror the journey of heartbreak, making it a favorite for those in the depths of sorrow.
Key Points:
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Emotional progression from soft to soaring.
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Lyrics express longing and hope for reconciliation.
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Featured in films and TV for its emotional resonance.
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Connects with listeners facing unrequited love.
3. Nothing Compares 2 U – Sinéad O’Connor

Sinéad O’Connor’s rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U” is iconic for its haunting vocals and emotional intensity. The song, originally written by Prince, became a worldwide hit thanks to O’Connor’s heartfelt performance and the unforgettable music video.
Key Points:
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Powerful vocal performance and minimalist production.
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Lyrics express profound loss and longing.
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Topped charts in multiple countries.
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Remains a staple on breakup playlists.
2. All Too Well – Taylor Swift

“All Too Well” is often hailed as Taylor Swift’s most poignant breakup song. With vivid storytelling and emotional depth, Swift recounts a past relationship in heartbreaking detail. The song’s extended version has become a fan favorite, praised for its honesty and lyrical craftsmanship.
Key Points:
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Renowned for its detailed, narrative lyrics.
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Explores themes of nostalgia and regret.
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Widely considered one of Swift’s best works.
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Resonates with listeners who have experienced deep heartbreak.
1. Someone Like You – Adele

Adele’s “Someone Like You” is a global heartbreak anthem, capturing the pain of seeing an ex move on. The song’s simple piano arrangement and Adele’s powerful vocals create an atmosphere of raw vulnerability. Its lyrics, filled with longing and acceptance, have comforted millions through their toughest breakups.
Key Points:
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Universally relatable lyrics about lost love.
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Became a chart-topping hit worldwide.
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Showcases Adele’s emotional vocal delivery.
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Frequently featured in movies and TV for its emotional impact.
Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ's
Why do these songs evoke such strong emotions?
These songs combine raw lyrics, emotive vocals, and relatable themes like betrayal, longing, and loss, resonating with universal breakup experiences.
Are these songs suitable for all breakup stages?
Yes, they cover sadness (Someone Like You), anger (Ex-Factor), and reflection (Landslide), catering to different emotional phases.
Where can I find these songs?
Most are available on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Music. Check playlists like “The Saddest Breakup Songs Of All Time” on Spotify.